Virtual Home Tours: Pros and Cons

If you’re reading this, it’s probably because you’re an Agent and looking to leverage your listings. Time is precious so let’s jump right in to why you should be utilizing video to get more eyes on your listings. We’ll also explore the pros and cons of four different types of virtual home tour options.

  1. Facebook LIVE There is nothing new about this platform. But what are the things you should consider if you’ve never done a FB LIVE? Let’s take a look.
    • PROS: In my opinion, there are so many pros to using FB LIVE. First, the LIVE feature is free and easy to use. LIVE allows you to engage and interact with your audience. And even if only one or two people show up for a LIVE, we all know the video can and will be viewed multiple times later on. And even better, it can be shared and viewed by other agents or potential Buyers! Facebook LIVE positions you as the expert, puts your face (aka your Brand) in front of people, and allows you to showcase not just the home, but your personality as well. For more tips and tricks on things to consider when going LIVE check out the video above.
    • CONS: If you aren’t comfortable in front of the camera this option will be a tough sell. Not only are you on camera, but you’re LIVE. Anyone using LIVE will need a certain level of confidence or enough determination to grow and get better. LIVE can be a great way to engage with your SOI, but if you don’t feel comfortable or at least uncomfortable enough to laugh about it and make that a emotional experience part of your LIVE then this may not be the best option for you right now. I can’t emphasize enough that video is the way our world has gone. I don’t believe that will change anytime soon, so the quicker you can adapt and find a way to get on camera the better.
  2. 3D Digital Home Tours
    1. PROS: Self guided by the viewer. The client can take their time and not feel compelled to keep your pace. Some people prefer NOT to interact with the agent and want to have the time and space they need to view and discuss the home. This is a PRO for many (but not all) people. You can access these tours anytime, anywhere and get some great insight into the look, feel, and overall layout of the home.
    2. CONS: You, as the agent, aren’t right there with the client. Your expertise isn’t available should the client have questions, concerns, or need clarification about something relative to the property or the neighborhood. Sometimes it’s the ‘in the moment’ opportunities that can be seized to help create a vision for a client. Those might be missed when you aren’t present to walk through a property with them.
  3. Custom Home Tours
    • PROS: You are The Driver and can start the tour in the BEST room or area of the home. As the agent, you also get to control the pace of the tour making sure that no detail is overlooked. You’re in front of the camera offering your expertise and insight.
    • CONS: Wifi, poor lighting, and an empty house can sometimes cause the viewer to feel frustrated or underwhelmed. An empty house will create an echo so consider using a MIC or your earbuds. Get there early to check the WiFi signal or consider stopping by a day prior to ensure it’s all in working order. Arrive early to turn on lights and open doors so that the flow is smooth. And use a stabilizer when possible for a more enjoyable viewing experience. Here’s an example of what they look like (CLICK HERE).
  4. Lattes and Listings
    • PROS: I can’t say enough good things about this platform. First of all, it’s FREE! Lattes and Listings is a private FB Group that was created exclusively for San Antonio Area Agents. This idea came about as a result of COVID and was birthed from the desire to help agents connect and keep their listings visible to the public. The group brings agents together the second and fourth Friday of every month from 9:30 – 10:00 AM on Zoom (and FB LIVE). Three agents feature their listings weekly. Other agents join in to view the listings, ask questions, and when requested, give feedback on how the Listing Agent might improve the listing, the photos, or even ways to enhance some of the selling point of the home. As a Listing Agent, it’s also a value add for your Sellers. Most of them will love knowing you’re showcasing their home to other agents in the area in hopes of finding a Buyer. To join the group you must be a licensed agent in the San Antonio area (this includes surrounding areas). You must also agree to the community guidelines. To join, go to facebook and in the search menu type “Lattes and Listings.”
    • CONS: THERE ARE NO CONS!

My Mission Targeted and AGENT FOCUSED

  1. To bring your value as an agent
  2. To provide ways to increase your discoverability
  3. To help you know the value your bring in order to position yourself as the expert
  4. To support you with your social media and marketing efforts

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Ava Reed is the passionate and insightful blogger behind our coaching platform. With a deep commitment to personal and professional development, Ava brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our coaching programs.

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